Under-20s to tour NZ

THE Ravinesh Kumar- coached Fiji under-20 team will tour New Zealand next month in preparation for the Oceania qualifiers to be held in Suva in May.

Three matches have already been lined up for the 17-day tour.

The team will play New Zealand U20, Waitakere United and Eastern Suburbs Association Football Club Inc.

Fiji Football Association president Rajesh Patel said the tour was initially planned for Australia.

Patel said this was changed because the teams sought for matches in Australia could not accommodate them.

"We had planned a tour to Australia but they have started a new competition with teams playing two matches a week so they are heavily committed," he said.

"We are thankful to the New Zealand Fiji Football Inc, which is our affiliate there, for making this tour possible. They will be looking after the team's accommodation, transportation and meals locally."